Untitled Flashcards Set

Leukocytes

Complete cells in the blood that protect the body against pathogens.

Leukocytosis

An increase in leukocyte count, often exceeding 11,000 WBCs/μl, in response to infections.

Granulocytes

A category of leukocytes that include neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils, characterized by lobed nuclei and cytoplasmic granules.

Agranulocytes

Leukocytes that lack visible granules and include lymphocytes and monocytes.

Neutrophils

The most abundant leukocytes (>50%) that act as phagocytes to destroy bacteria.

Eosinophils

Leukocytes (2-4%) that combat parasitic infections and play a role in allergies.

Basophils

The rarest leukocytes (0.5%) that release histamine to increase blood vessel permeability.

Leukopoiesis

The process of producing leukocytes, regulated hormonally according to the body's needs.

PAMPs (Pathogen-Associated Molecular Patterns)

Molecular patterns found in pathogens that trigger an immune response.

DAMPs (Damage-Associated Molecular Patterns)

Molecules indicating tissue damage that activate the immune response.

Innate Immunity

Nonspecific defenses that provide immediate protection against foreign substances.

Adaptive Immunity

Specific defenses that involve targeted responses to specific pathogens.

Inflammation

A protective response to injury characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain.

Diapedesis

The movement of leukocytes from the bloodstream into tissues.

Chemotaxis

The movement of cells towards the site of injury or infection in response to chemical signals.

Interferons

Proteins secreted by virus-infected cells that help protect neighboring cells and activate immune responses.

Complement System

A group of plasma proteins that enhance the inflammatory response and promote opsonization of pathogens.

B lymphocytes

Immune cells responsible for humoral immunity and antibody production.

T lymphocytes

Cells involved in cell-mediated immunity, targeting infected or cancerous cells.

Memorized B-cells

B-cells that provide long-term immunity after differentiation from activated B-cells.